D’TIGRESS UNVEIL SQUAD FOR AFROBASKET TITLE CHASE, PLAN ABUJA HOMECOMING

By: Gyang Dakwo

Defending champions, D’Tigress, are once again getting ready to make history as they aim for a record fifth straight title. The team, led by experienced players Promise Amukamara, Ezinne Kalu, and Amy Okonkwo, will look to continue their dominance in African women’s basketball.

In line with this, the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) has named a 20-woman preliminary squad for the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket Championship, scheduled to take place in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, from July 25 to August 3, 2025.

The squad includes a mix of seasoned stars and exciting newcomers. Victoria Macaulay returns to provide leadership and stability, while fresh faces such as Christabel O. Ezumah, Izoje Uche, Grace Efosa, Ugonne Onyiah, and Gift Uchenna bring energy and promise to the team.

From point guards to centres, the team boasts strong depth in every position, giving fans plenty of reason to believe in a successful title defence.

D’Tigress have won the AfroBasket championship six times, including four back-to-back titles in 2017, 2019, 2021, and 2023. They are now eyeing a historic fifth consecutive win.

As part of their preparations, the team will hold a Homecoming Tournament in Abuja. The event will include exhibition matches, fan engagement activities, a media day, and a special ceremony to honour returning champions. It will also give home fans a rare opportunity to cheer for the team before they depart for the tournament.

With the roster now announced and preparations underway, all eyes are on Nigeria as the champions begin their journey to another possible triumph.

Preliminary Squad

Point Guards:

Promise Amukamara, Ezinne Kalu

Combo Guard:

Ifunaya Okoro

Shooting Guards / Forwards (2/3):

Elizabeth Balogun, Grace Efosa, Solape Amusan, Abiodun Damilola Yusuf

Forwards:

Adenike Oluwaji Olayemi

Forwards / Power Forwards (3/4):

Amy Okonkwo, Nicole Enabosi, Pallas Kunayi